Santa Ana College Tops Orange County Community Colleges in Niche Ranking
The institution ranked No. 11 in California and No. 44 nationally, driven by affordability and student support services.
By Allison Rojas ·
Santa Ana College has positioned itself as the leading community college in its county. The institution received the top spot in the Niche 2027 Best Community Colleges rankings for Orange County on October 30.
The ranking places the college 11th out of 101 ranked community colleges in California. It also secured the 44th position among 732 ranked institutions across the United States. Niche assigned the college an overall grade of B+ based on these metrics.
Dr. Annebelle Nery, the college president, expressed pride in the achievement. She stated that the recognition belongs to the students, faculty, and staff who drive the institution's daily operations. Nery noted that the college’s commitment to student success is the core of its mission.
Dr. Jeffrey Lamb, vice president of academic affairs, described the college's approach as one of continuous adaptation. He said the institution has spent over 110 years reinventing itself to meet the needs of transfer partners and industry. Lamb emphasized that the college grows programs with a specific focus on student retention and support.
The college serves nearly 50,000 credit and noncredit students, making it the second-largest community college in California. It offers 273 degrees and certificates, including 28 associate degrees for transfer. Three bachelor's degree programs are currently active, with two more scheduled to launch by 2028.
Lamb highlighted the college's extensive online degree program as a key differentiator. Faculty members must complete 120 hours of training to teach online classes. This requirement ensures instructors can create interactive and engaging digital courses for students.
The institution accepts 100% of applicants. Lamb noted that approximately 80% of students from local high schools attend the college at no cost. Those who do not qualify for free tuition often receive financial aid, including Pell Grants and scholarships from the college foundation.
Niche calculated the rankings using data from the U.S. Department of Education along with student and alumni reviews. The evaluation criteria included academics, value, faculty quality, diversity, campus safety, and student life. One student reviewer praised the professors and the availability of resources such as food and health services.
Anthony Rivera, the Associated Student Government president, supported the ranking. He pointed to initiatives like Transfer Awareness Week and a 24/7 support line as evidence of the college's advocacy for students. Rivera told prospective students that their voice matters and that they will build relationships with faculty who care about their success.
The college originally opened on the campus of Santa Ana High School with 26 students and 11 faculty members. It has since expanded its offerings to include adult education, career tech certificates, and unique studies in fields like criminal justice and nursing.
